Halo-gravity traction (HGT) is a type of traction device utilized to treat spinal deformities such as scoliosis and congenital spine deformities.
To perform halo-traction therapy a surgeon will use six to ten small pins to attach a "halo" made of a metal ring to the patient's skull.Doctors will typically leave one to two centimeters of distance between the halo and the patient's head. It is common for older patients to be given eight pins while younger patients are given 10. Prior to pin placement, some patients may undergo hair removal. It is not required for successful treatment, but it can help to reduce the risk of pin infection from hair getting caught in a pin or scalp necrosis. The pins will be placed into the forehead bones to prevent the head from moving
